Back in 2010, we said:

...we’d recommend against an IS 250 with the six-speed automatic transmission as it’s just a little sluggish; with the manual transmission the IS 250 feels like a real driver’s car, with nice balanced handling and good poise. There’s not much of a real-world fuel economy difference between the two, however both engines require premium unleaded gas. The IS isn’t particularly roomy inside, nor is it a safety standout, but it can be loaded with high-tech features, including a rear backup camera, a voice-activated navigation system, ventilated front seats... Read More